Portrait – Faith Bandler

Faith Bandler — Connections

Created for the Connections theme, this portrait celebrates Faith Bandler, an Australian civil rights activist and writer whose tireless campaigning helped build public support for the 1967 Referendum.

As a leading organiser within the Federal Council for the Advancement of Aborigines and Torres Strait Islanders, Bandler became the New South Wales coordinator for the ‘Yes’ campaign. She travelled, spoke at public meetings, lobbied politicians and connected with communities across Australia, working to persuade voters to support constitutional change.

For me, Bandler represents the power of connection — bringing people together, building understanding and turning individual voices into collective action. The 1967 Referendum was ultimately supported by more than 90 per cent of voters, making it one of Australia’s most significant referendum victories.

This portrait honours a woman who understood that meaningful change begins when people connect, listen and act together.